Definition of readjustment

The word "readjustment" is a rather recent addition to the English language. It came into being in the mid-20th century, specifically in the 1950s. The term is a combination of "re-" (meaning again or anew) and "adjustment" (meaning the process of making something conform to a standard or desired state). In its earliest uses, "readjustment" referred primarily to the process of reorganizing or reconfiguring something, such as financial systems, institutional structures, or social policies, in response to changing circumstances or new information. Over time, the term has taken on broader connotations, encompassing not only technical or organizational adjustments but also personal changes, such as adjusting to new situations or re-evaluating one's priorities and goals. Today, "readjustment" is commonly used in a wide range of contexts, from business and finance to education and personal development.